World Spine Day, observed annually on October 16, raises awareness of spinal health and the impact it has on overall well-being. This year’s theme, “Back to Basics,” focuses on the importance of maintaining a healthy spine through simple, everyday habits. One of the most essential, yet often overlooked, components of spinal health is the quality of sleep and the role it plays in supporting proper alignment.
In support of this year’s initiative, Sloom, a leading South African mattress brand, aims to educate the public on how proper sleep positioning can prevent spinal issues and improve posture, especially as we age.
“When it comes to choosing a mattress for spinal health, two key factors matter: support and comfort – and they go hand in hand. While many believe that support is the only important aspect, comfort plays a massive role in maintaining proper spinal alignment. If your mattress isn’t comfortable, your body will subconsciously shift into positions that aren’t ergonomically correct. For example, if your mattress is too firm and creates pressure on your hips, your body might instinctively turn onto your stomach to relieve that pressure. This can strain your spine, affecting your overall posture and sleep quality. That’s why at Sloom, we emphasise the ability to fine-tune both your support and comfort. Our mattresses are designed to help you achieve the perfect balance between the two, ensuring proper spinal alignment without sacrificing comfort.” says Rudo Kemp, Founder of Sloom.
According to a study by the National Sleep Foundation, proper sleep positioning can reduce the risk of back pain by up to 60%, where poor sleep positioning can lead to misalignments and discomfort, which can worsen over time. As we age, maintaining proper spinal alignment during sleep becomes even more essential, reducing the risk of chronic conditions like degenerative disc disease. A well-designed mattress can play a crucial role in supporting a healthy spine throughout these years.
Understanding the Connection:
Spinal Alignment: Proper sleep positions help maintain the spine’s natural curves, reducing strain on muscles and ligaments.
Muscle Relaxation: Quality sleep allows muscles around the spine to relax and recover, while poor sleep can lead to tension and discomfort.
Reduced Pressure Points: A good mattress distributes body weight evenly, minimising pressure and promoting better circulation.
Injury Prevention: Adequate sleep enhances the body’s ability to repair itself, decreasing the risk of spinal injuries.
Pain Management: Quality sleep helps reduce chronic pain conditions, enabling better pain and inflammation management.
Mental Health Connection: Good sleep supports mental well-being, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety that can exacerbate spinal issues.
Long-Term Health: Prioritising quality sleep mitigates the risk of chronic conditions like degenerative disc disease.
Sleep and a good quality mattress, are often overlooked in discussions about overall health, but a good mattress plays an essential role in maintaining a well-aligned and supported spine. By raising awareness of proper sleep positioning and investing in quality sleep solutions, we can take meaningful steps toward reducing back pain, preventing spinal disorders, and enhancing our quality of life.
Sloom’s goal is to empower every individual to enjoy a pain-free and restful night’s sleep through innovative, tailored sleep solutions. For personalised advice on improving your sleep environment or to explore their customisable mattress solutions, visit www.sloom.co.za or reach out to our sleep experts for more information.
